Desert West Surgery | Las Vegas, Nevada
An inguinal hernia is one of the most common types of hernias, particularly in men. While it may start as a mild bulge or discomfort in the groin, an inguinal hernia does not heal on its own and can worsen over time. At Desert West Surgery, we focus on safe, durable hernia repair using modern techniques and a patient-centered recovery plan.
An inguinal hernia occurs when abdominal contents—most commonly fat or intestine—push through a weakened area in the lower abdominal wall near the inguinal canal. This often presents as a bulge in the groin that may become more noticeable when standing, coughing, or straining.
Inguinal hernias are commonly classified as:
Indirect inguinal hernias (often congenital, more common in younger patients)
Direct inguinal hernias (acquired over time due to abdominal wall weakness)
Symptoms can vary but frequently include:
A visible or palpable bulge in the groin or scrotum
Discomfort or aching, especially with lifting or prolonged standing
A sensation of pressure or heaviness in the groin
Pain that worsens throughout the day
Some patients have minimal symptoms at first, but the hernia may gradually enlarge over time.
Many inguinal hernias are not emergencies, but complications can occur. Incarceration (when the hernia cannot be pushed back in) and strangulation (when blood supply is compromised) require urgent evaluation.
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop:
Sudden or severe groin/abdominal pain
Nausea or vomiting
Redness or warmth over the bulge
A bulge that becomes firm, tender, or cannot be reduced
Diagnosis is typically made through a focused physical examination. Imaging such as an ultrasound or CT scan may be used in select cases, especially when symptoms are present without an obvious bulge.
The definitive treatment for an inguinal hernia is surgical repair. At Desert West Surgery, we tailor the approach to each patient based on anatomy, activity level, prior surgeries, and overall health.
Common approaches include:
Robotic-assisted inguinal hernia repair
Open inguinal hernia repair, when indicated
Modern hernia repair techniques often use mesh reinforcement to strengthen the abdominal wall and help reduce recurrence rates.
Robotic inguinal hernia repair is a modern technique that allows the surgeon to repair the hernia through small incisions using precise instruments and enhanced visualization.
In many patients, robotic repair is associated with less acute pain in the early postoperative period. Most patients have their procedure performed as an outpatient surgery, go home after waking up from general anesthesia, and are able to recover comfortably with little to no opioid medication after surgery.
Most patients return home the same day. Recovery is typically straightforward:
Light activity is encouraged early
Many patients return to desk work within a few days
Gradual return to full activity over several weeks
Your surgeon will provide specific guidance based on the type of repair performed and your personal medical history.
Our team has extensive experience in both straightforward and complex hernia repairs. We focus on:
Evidence-based surgical techniques
Robotic and open approaches tailored to the patient
Clear communication and individualized care
Efficient recovery with durable results
If you suspect an inguinal hernia or have already been diagnosed and want to explore treatment options, we’re here to help.
Desert West Surgery
Las Vegas, Nevada
